Cervical screening

That this House expresses profound concern at the decision by the Northern Ireland Health minister not to establish a statutory public inquiry into the Northern Ireland cervical screening scandal involving the Southern Health and Social Care Trust; notes that approximately 17,500 women had smear test results reviewed following serious failings in cervical screening services over a period spanning more than a decade; further notes that a number of women developed cervical cancer following misread smear tests and that two young mothers, Lynsey Courtney and Erin Harbinson, tragically lost their lives; recognises the tireless campaigning work of the Ladies with Letters group in seeking truth, transparency and accountability; believes that only a full statutory public inquiry established under the Inquiries Act 2005 would possess the necessary powers to compel witnesses and documentation, hold hearings in public and fully establish the extent of systemic failings; regrets that victims and families continue to feel denied full answers and justice; and calls on the Government and all relevant authorities to support the establishment of a comprehensive public inquiry capable of restoring public confidence in cervical screening services and ensuring lessons are fully learned for the future.